Combining DMT and the Sharpmaker

[Chang1]

First off, I'd like to thank you guys for all the useful information you've posted here. There's is definitely a lot to learn from you guys. Now my question...

I was wondering if anyone have ever combined the Spyderco Sharpmaker and DMT stones? By this, I mean has anyone ever tried taking the DMT diamond stones from the Aligner kit, using some adhesive to stick the DMT stones to the ceramic rods of the Sharpmaker, sticking the rods in the base of the Sharpmaker to maintain the 30 or 40 degree angle, used the DMT stones on that are set on the rods, and used this combination successfully?

I hope I explained what I'm trying to say enough for you guys to understand. I feel that I'm proficient with the Sharpmaker, but need something with a more agressive grit for reprofiling or neglected edges. I know that DMT stones are great products, but, right now at least, my freehand skills are not up to the level that I would like them to be. This setup seems like it would be ideal for me, but I don't know if it wouldn't work.

Before someone says it, I've tried the diamond rods offered by Spyderco. They didn't offer the grit that I was looking for.

If someone has done this before and/or knows a better way to achieve what I'm trying, your input would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance.

 

[me2]

I used to rebevel my knives with a DMT Course stone on a block cut to 17 degrees, then go to the Sharpmaker at 20. I used the full size 6" DMT stone on a block I made out of some scrap wood. There is a tutorial on here somewhere to make one very similar to it. If I had the cash, I'd get a couple more DMT's and do it some more, maybe a xcoarse, then fine, then Sharpmaker. My DMT coarse is long gone.

 

[THG]

I've put the DMT Diamond Whetstones up against the Sharpmaker rods using rubber bands before. It worked fairly well. You've just gotta try not to cut the rubber bands.

Just keep in mind what you're doing to the rods when you place something against them, especially if you get a dual-sided DMT stone.

If you have an Aligner, you might as well just use that. If you strictly want to do the Sharpmaker/DMT combo, then you might as well get the bench stones to give you more space and so that you can learn freehanding sometime later.

 

[Chang1]

Thanks for the feedback guys.

me2, I like that suggestion of the block. That kind of makes more sense than using the Sharpmaker rod to support the stone.

THG, I don't have an Aligner, but have been thinking about getting one. I've been trying to figure out what to get for sharpening, whether it be a system or just stones. I am hoping that this setup will help my hands get a feel for the angle and help improve my freehanding skills.

Thank you again guys.

 

[THG]

THG, I don't have an Aligner, but have been thinking about getting one. I've been trying to figure out what to get for sharpening, whether it be a system or just stones. I am hoping that this setup will help my hands get a feel for the angle and help improve my freehanding skills.

The Aligner did help me learn a lot about what it takes to get a sharp edge. I ended up getting bored of it, though, with all the setup and such, and that's how I ended up learning freehand. It's so much better to be able to take a stone, place it on the table, and be done and cleaned up all in 5 minutes.